Generally speaking if you create a habitat for hummingbirds you will attract butterflies and moths as well. What could be more rewarding than beautiful flowers that serve to feed awe inspiring animals? As a rule, any bell-shaped flower serves to attract. The color red is also a powerful attractant-it is difficult to find a hummingbird feeder that does not have red somewhere on it. Full or part sun, annual or perennial, it doesn't matter as long as it produces nectar. The following is a list of proven winners:
aster
azalea
bee balm
begonia
bleeding heart
blanketflower
butterfly bush (buddelia)
canna
columbine
coral bells (heuchera)
cosmos
delphinium
flowering tobacco (nicotana)
foxglove
fuchsia
geranium
hollyhock
lantana
lilac
lobelia
mallow
nasturtiums
pentas
phlox
purple coneflower (echinacea)
rose of sharon
scabosia
sage (salvia)
sedum
verbena
zinnia
In addition to these nectar producing plants, some purists will also plant "host" plants which adult butterflies seek to lay their eggs. Any google search will yield more information about desirable habitats than you could want for.
Adding a hummingbird feeder to your garden ensures a flurry of activity. Whether in a pot or in the ground, keep these plants in mind as you plant this summer and welcome these amazing creatures to your yard.
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